Kenmore Washer Error Code LE — Motor Error / Motor Locked Rotor
What this means
The LE error code on Kenmore washers indicates a locked motor condition — the drive motor is being asked to turn the drum but cannot. This code is common on Kenmore models manufactured by LG. Causes range from a simple overloaded drum to a failed stator or rotor assembly, or even a faulty hall sensor. In some cases, a hard reset clears a temporary overload.
Alternate codes: LE1
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsReduce the load and reset
Remove some items from the drum to lighten the load. Unplug the washer for 10 minutes, then plug it back in and try again. An overloaded drum is the most common cause of a temporary LE error.
Front-load washers are more sensitive to overloading than top-loaders — err on the side of smaller loads.
Check the rotor bolt
Unplug the washer and remove the rear panel. Locate the large center bolt on the rotor (the large disc on the back of the drum). Check that it's tight. If it's loose, the rotor can slip on the shaft and the motor won't engage properly.
Apply a drop of threadlocker to the rotor bolt when re-tightening to prevent it from loosening again.
Inspect the stator and hall sensor
With the rear panel off, remove the rotor bolt and pull the rotor off (it's held by magnets). Inspect the stator underneath for burn marks, cracked windings, or damaged connectors. Check the hall sensor (small component on the stator) and its wiring.
Use your multimeter to check resistance across the stator windings — you should see 5–8 ohms between each pair of terminals.
Test and replace the hall sensor
The hall sensor monitors rotor position. Disconnect it and measure resistance — it should read around 10–15 ohms. If the reading is off, replace just the sensor rather than the entire stator.
The hall sensor is one of the most common failure points and is inexpensive to replace — try it before buying a new stator.
When to call a professional
If the stator windings are burned or the drive motor bearings are seized, the repair requires significant disassembly. A professional can also check the motor control board for issues that aren't visible.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Hall Sensor (Rotor Position Sensor)
Part #6501KW2002A · $8–$15
Required if sensor fails resistance testing
Stator Assembly
Part #4417EA1002Y · $80–$140
Only if stator windings are damaged or burned
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